usting
my instincts, my intuitions, instead of my eyes. Voices tell a lot about
people, don't they?--more than I ever dreamed they could. Pete, there is
nothing in that--that splendid, generous thing Hugh did, the thing I
am not to talk about, nothing to keep Hugh now from going back to
the world--some place--that is, far away from where it happened--and
beginning again, is there?"

"I hope not, Sylvie."

She sighed. "Of course it was wonderful. If he hadn't told me of it, I
never should have known half of his greatness; yet I can't help wishing
he were free. It's sad to think there will always be the memory of that
dreadful suffering and danger in his life."

"Very sad," said Pete.

"How alone we both are--he and I! Bella, and you, Pete--don't be angry,
please--I don't think you quite understand Hugh, quite appreciate him."

"Perhaps not."

"He has always been lonely. You are so young, and Bella is so
stupid--stupid and cross."

"No, she isn't, Sylvie. I know Bella a lot better than you do. She's not
stupid or cross--"

"Well, I like you to stick up for your old nurse. She certainly must
have loved you a lot to bring you way out here and to stay here all
these years to take care of you. I wonder where she'll go and what
she'll do when Hugh and I get married. You're too old for a nurse
now, Pete. Do you mind if I lean back against you that way? It's so
comfortable. I'd be happier without Bella, Pete, you know."

"Would you, Sylvie? Well, Bella and I will have to go away together
somewhere, I guess."

"I didn't say you, dear. I love you a lot--next best to Hugh. There's
something awfully sweet about you--you great strong overgrown thing!
Your heart goes _thump-thump-thump-thump_, as though it was as big as
the sun.... I feel much better and happier now. Things have got steady
again. Only--I wish Hugh would come back."

Pete gave a strangled sigh.

"He'll be back." And he began to draw himself away from her. "I think I
hear him now, Sylvie."

"Stay where you are," she laughed. "Don't be ashamed of being found with
a sister leaning against you and holding your hand. Are you afraid of
Hugh? I think sometimes he's rather hard with you--I'll have to speak
to him about that. Oh"--in a sudden ecstasy--"how happy I am! I feel as
light as the air. I want every one to be happy. Tell me when Hugh comes
in how happy he looks, Pete--promise me, quick! There he is at the door
now."

"Yes," he whispered, "I promise.